Papastavrou on Chevron: “We Have Nothing to Discuss with Turkey – No ‘Kazan-Kazan’ on Sovereign Rights”

Greek Minister for the Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, delivered a firm message regarding Turkey’s stance on energy issues, clarifying Greece’s position on sovereignty and the strategic involvement of Chevron in Greece’s hydrocarbon tenders. Speaking on national television (ANT1’s “Kalimera Ellada”), he emphasized that Greece will not engage in any form of co-management or compromise over its sovereign rights.

“There is nothing to discuss with Turkey when it comes to Chevron”

Referring to recent reports, Papastavrou reiterated Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s position, as stated in his interview with The Wall Street Journal:“When it comes to Chevron, we have nothing to discuss with Turkey. Our sovereign rights are non-negotiable and not up for sharing. There is no such thing as ‘kazan-kazan’ (win-win) in this context.”

While rejecting any negotiations on energy sovereignty, the Minister acknowledged that there are areas of constructive cooperation with Turkey, such as tourism, which can be addressed through dialogue – but not through threats.

 Greece’s growing role as a regional and transatlantic energy hub

Papastavrou emphasized that Greece is emerging as a key player in the global energy landscape, thanks to:

• Its political and economic stability,
• Its strategic geographic location, and
• Its robust energy infrastructure.

These factors position the country as a vital energy hub connecting Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the United States.

Major US-Greece energy forum (P-TEC) coming to Athens

The Minister announced that Greece will host the P-TEC (Partnership for Transatlantic Energy Cooperation) summit on November 6–7, featuring the participation of US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Doug Burgum, head of the US National Energy Sovereignty Council and senior Trump administration official.

“Mr. Burgum chose Greece as the first country to visit in his new role. That sends a message in itself,” Papastavrou said.

Over 20 ministers and 400 representatives from governments and energy companies around the world are expected to attend, further confirming Greece’s rising international energy profile.

 Chevron’s entry into Greek hydrocarbons: a strategic milestone

Commenting on Chevron’s involvement in Greece’s hydrocarbon exploration tenders, Papastavrou described it as a milestone for the country’s energy future.

“If the surveys are successful, Greece will no longer need to import natural gas. Energy will become more affordable for households and businesses, boosting competitiveness. The country will achieve energy independence, and the standard of living for Greeks will improve dramatically.”

He also noted that this breakthrough is the result of 15 years of efforts, now being implemented by the current government of New Democracy.

According to the timeline he provided:

• The agreement with Chevron is expected to be submitted to the Court of Auditors in November,
• It will then go to Parliament for ratification,
• Seismic and geophysical surveys will begin in early 2026, with a duration of 2–3 years.

 ANT1 – Atlantic Council partnership: Strengthening Euro-Gulf ties

Closing his remarks, Papastavrou praised the new strategic partnership between Greek media group ANT1 and the Atlantic Council, the most influential US-based think tank.

He called the collaboration a crucial initiative that brings Europe closer to Gulf nations, highlighting their geostrategic significance in today’s multipolar world.

“The Gulf countries are strategically positioned between East and West — they are on the corridor from India to Europe. Strengthening cooperation with them is essential for stability, growth, and energy security.”

He added that Greece has historically acted as a bridge between the Middle East and Europe, and this initiative will yield significant long-term benefits for regional peace, energy sovereignty, and sustainable development.

Source: pagenews.gr